Spring Exterior Upgrade: Transform Your Home's First Impression with Cedar Stain

Spring is finally here, and with the change of seasons comes the desire to refresh our homes. The real estate market's best-selling weeks are approaching, and when selling your home, first impressions are crucial. Experts advise refreshing exterior elements like the front door, garage door, shutters, and decks, along with landscaping, to make a lasting impact on potential buyers. One of the simplest yet most cost-effective ways to enhance your home’s exterior is by applying a new coat of paint or stain.

2025 Stain Color of the Year: Cedar Paint brand Behr has selected ‘Cedar’ as the 2025 Stain Color of the Year. This color palette is designed to help homeowners easily choose an exterior color while boosting visual appeal. Cedar offers a warm, natural look that remains timeless, providing a durable exterior finish—perfect for spring outdoor projects. According to interior designer Nick Smith, Cedar is an elegant, classic color ideal for exterior wood finishes.

Where Can You Apply Cedar Stain on Your Home’s Exterior?

1. Front Door: Applying Cedar stain to a solid wood front door creates a warm, inviting first impression. Be sure to maintain it with occasional inspections and touch-ups to keep it looking its best.

2. Garage Door & Shutters: For a cohesive look, apply Cedar stain to wooden garage doors or shutters. Experts recommend thoroughly cleaning and lightly sanding the surface for the best finish.

3. Decks, Porches & Railings: Staining these outdoor spaces with Cedar gives them a polished, long-lasting look. Well-maintained outdoor spaces can make your home feel more spacious and bright, leaving a positive impression on buyers.

4. Fence: A Cedar-stained fence provides a seamless, natural enclosure around your property. Preparation, such as cleaning and sanding, is crucial before staining.

5. Pergolas & Gazebos: Staining outdoor structures with Cedar enhances their harmony with the surrounding landscape, creating a relaxing, natural retreat.

The Return on Investment (ROI) of Cedar Stain Experts agree that upgrading your home’s exterior with Cedar stain is a relatively low-cost way to significantly improve your home’s curb appeal. Homes with well-maintained exteriors inspire trust in potential buyers, increasing the likelihood of a quicker sale at a better price.

Paint vs. Stain: Which is Better? Stain soaks into the wood, enhancing its natural grain while offering easier maintenance and fewer peeling issues than paint. For exterior wood elements, stain can add sophistication and visual appeal. On the other hand, paint offers more color options and provides a uniform finish, though it may peel or crack over time and hide the wood’s texture.

Modern stain products offer excellent durability, making Cedar an ideal choice for a trendy, natural finish that elevates your home’s first impression.